Cleaners 'are not being allowed to do their job'

The British Cleaning Council says luggage and belongings, plus the sheer number of visitors at each bed, is making wards harder to clean.

It says this leads to "slip-shod" hygiene standards in hospitals.

The BCC called for measures such as set visiting times and restrictions on how much patients can bring in to hospitals to be introduced.

Improved cleanliness alone will not tackle the problem of superbugs like MRSA Department of Health spokeswoman

There are an estimated 5,000 deaths from hospital-acquired infections such as MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) each year, although experts warn there could be more.

Hygiene is one of the key factors in reducing infections.

The BCC said patients should recognise their own role in tackling hospital infections.

'Too many interruptions'

Paul Pearce, chairman of the BCC, said: "In their desire to pander to the patient's every whim, some hospital managers have forgotten that their most important right is to be able to recover in a safe, hygienic place.

"Cleaners must be allowed to do their jobs properly and without interruption."

Mr Pearce added: "In fact, they should play an integral part of how the ward works and plan in how and when they think cleaning should be done."

He added: "In the days of matron there were strict visiting times and patients did as they were asked, allowing cleaners to get on with the job in hand.

"Because visiting times vary now and aren't as strictly observed as in the past, it often means that there is no time when a ward can be properly cleaned without interruption."

"By reintroducing tighter visiting hours, cleaners will get their chance to bring our hospitals up to a high standard of cleanliness."

'Investment'

A Department of Health spokeswoman said: "Cleanliness contributes to controlling infection.

"Earlier this month, we announced plans to ensure that cleanliness is at the heart of the NHS inspection regime.

"Local patient forums' will conduct cleanliness inspections four times a year and matrons and nurses will be given the power to ensure high standards are maintained in wards.

"But improved cleanliness alone will not tackle the problem of superbugs like MRSA.